From sleeve to sweater for dogs

HINTS FROM HELOISE

Heloise

Dear Heloise: I recycle and reuse all sorts of items. I have even made a sweater for my small dog. Here’s how:

I cut a sleeve off an old sweater or sweat shirt. Using a flat surface, make cuts about an inch or so from the seam and the cuff. Mark two circles on the material for the front leg holes. Put this on Fido, putting the cuff part at the neck for the collar. It should be short enough so that no hind leg holes are needed.

If it doesn’t fit, you can try again using the other sleeve. — B.R., via email

How darling, and how smart! “Reuse and recycle” is nothing to be ashamed of! — Heloise

Dear Readers: Daisy, one of our office dogs, is not too happy with her early Thanksgiving feast — regular dog kibble and water!

To see Daisy and our other Pet Pals, visit www.Heloise.com and click on “Pet of the Week.” — Heloise

Dear Heloise: For those who like frozen yogurt, here is an easy way to make yogurt on a stick:

¯ Using a 5-ounce cup of yogurt, cut a 1/2-inch-long slit in the center of the lid.

¯ Using saved wooden sticks from other confections, push a stick into the slit. Be sure that the stick is perpendicular to the lid and the yogurt is level in the cup. Tap the container on the counter, if necessary.

¯ Freeze for 24 hours. Remove the container from the freezer, and put the cup in your hands to soften.

¯ Remove the lid and push up on the bottom of the container.

Enjoy! Ain’t science grand? — Ed Y., Villa Park, Calif.

Dear Heloise: I love dark denim, but it tends to fade over time. Here are the hints I use when washing jeans to keep them as dark as possible:

¯ Turn the jeans inside out.

¯ Wash and rinse in cold to warm water.

¯ It’s best to hang them to dry.

¯ If putting in the dryer, use low heat and a longer time.

— Colton E., via email

Dear Heloise: I just discovered a gravy hint. Brown gravy tastes so much richer and more delicious when you add a small splash of coffee. Try just a dash at first, and then adjust to taste. — Charlotte in Savannah, Ga.

How right you are. My mother, the original Heloise (1919-1977), would add a glug (about 2 to 3 tablespoons) in dark-brown gravy. It’s an easy way to perk up gravy. — Heloise

Dear Heloise: When I take my morning walk, I carry a vitamin E capsule to massage into my nails and cuticles. While I walk, I get a mini cuticle massage. — Tina P., via email